Watch out for those popcorn bags

This came in today from the Los Angeles Daily Times. Just something else that allegedly can make us sick.

Los Angeles -- A debate about greasy fingers is getting a little sticky up in Sacramento.

A state senator is proposing that California become the first state to ban a class of potential carcinogens used in some popcorn bags, pizza boxes and other grease-resistant food packaging.

Scientists have found that when the paper packaging is heated -- when popcorn is microwaved, for example -- the substances known broadly as perfluorinated chemicals can break down into compounds that are absorbed into food and then leach into the bloodstream.

Senate Bill 1313 by Sen. Ellen Corbett, D-San Leandro, would require the removal of PFCs from food packaging and direct manufacturers to use safe alternatives.

"I believe Californians should have the opportunity to know if their health is at risk," she said. "It's a terrible toxic substance because it builds up in the blood and doesn't go away."

DuPont, one of the leading manufacturers that use PFCs, and other industry groups are fighting the measure, saying it would be too expensive to regulate, and the company has been working to voluntarily phase in safer alternatives.

"DuPont alone doesn't oppose this bill. ... There's been a dozen organizations and associations within the industry, whether it's food packaging or manufacturing, that have registered their opposition," said DuPont spokesman Dan Turner.